Met Gala 2023: Black & White Rule The Red Carpet
The first Monday in May, the most anticipated red carpet in the fashion calendar, and this year’s Met Gala held the focus of the world’s eyes. ‘In Honour of Karl’, the exhibit and adjacent red carpet gala have, rightly, drawn criticism for honouring the work of a man who held some somewhat controversial and contentious thoughts, opinions and beliefs.
Nonetheless, it was crystal clear to anticipate many ensembles making reference to, or even actual archive pulls, Karl Lagerfeld’s extensive career history at Patou, Fendi, Chloé and, of course, Chanel. Perhaps less prophesied, however, was the number of looks making direct nods to the designer’s own personal style. Forever sharp and highly starched, Lagerfeld was instantly recognisable in crisp white shirts, black suits and fingerless black leather gloves.
Even those who did not opt for a Karl Lagerfeld cosplay did find themselves wearing only tones of two colours: Black and white, resulting in a remarkably colour-less event.
Gisele Bündchen in a vintage Chanel piece from SS2007 couture, worn by Bündchen for Harper’s Bazaar Korea in that same year.
Lizzo in a custom Chanel gown seemingly referencing Karl’s collection for the house in FW91.
Perhaps the most impressive archival pull was reserved for Dua Lipa, wearing Chanel FW92 couture, originally worn by Lagerfeld muse Claudia Schiffer.
Academy Award winner Michelle Yeoh, one of a small handful of attendees wearing Lagerfeld’s eponymous brand, Karl Lagerfeld.
Gigi Hadid wears a custom Givenchy gown. Her lace gloves act as a clear homage to the late Karl Lagerfeld.
Kim Kardashian, one year after her controversial Marilyn Monroe moment, wears custom Schiaparelli. Those are real pearls!
Just days after being announced as the new face of the fashion house, Florence Pugh, with a freshly shaven head, wears Valentino couture.
Anne Hathaway, the new face of Versace, wears a custom Atelier Versace gown that displays Donatella’s masterful ability to honour a theme whilst remaining true to her own design ethos.
Margot Robbie, a Chanel veteran, attends the event in a replica of a Lagerfeld-designed gown from SS93, originally worn by Cindy Crawford.
A glowing Chanel bride, co-chair Penelope Cruz dug into the Chanel archives for this SS88 haute couture piece.
